Shorashim & Teen Learning

Experiential Jewish Education
Pre-K (3-4 years old)-12th Grade

Creating a community of Jewishly engaged lifelong learners is the goal of our synagogue-based education for children Pre-K (3-4 year olds) through high school.

We offer an experiential model of education, which allows each learner to explore and discover meaning, personal relevance, and truths in our Jewish tradition and thought. Our curriculum focuses on Hebrew language, Torah study, prayer literacy, holiday celebrations, Jewish values, learning about Israel’s history and culture, and more.

Our clergy and team of educators are trained to work with learners with a spectrum of learning differences. We provide flexible learning spaces, use assistive technology, offer calm/quiet zones with sensory tools, and accommodate food allergies.

Open to all, our Shorashim program for learners Pre-K (3-4 year olds) through 7th grade, and Limmud for our 8th-10th graders offer an inspiring array of Jewish studies. We go beyond the traditional “Hebrew School” expectation, shaping an experience that is fun, engaging, and establishing solid roots (Shorashim) as our children become lifelong learners (Limmud) on their Jewish journey (Masa).

For information about our Shorashim Pre-K-7th grade programming (our religious school program on Sundays and weekday afternoons), contact Michelle Steinhart, Director of Learning and Inclusion at 914-948-2800 x145.

For information about Limmud and Masa, contact Jasmine Buzzella, Associate Director of Youth and Teen Engagement at 914-948-2800 x153.

Shorashim

Through curated experiences, our learners develop a strong Jewish identity through meaningful learning that connects them to their own personal Jewish roots and to Jewish history. Just as knowing our roots tell us where we come from and what we are made of, it also tells us that we are a part of something bigger than ourselves.

Join our inclusive Shorashim program for children in Pre-K through grade 7 which fosters a love of Judaism through positive relationships, joyful learning, questioning, and critical thinking.

Being a community of learners extends to our families as well, going far beyond what many parents may have been used to in their Sunday School experience growing up. You are invited to participate in the many community events that Temple Israel Center has to offer.

Please use your TIC member login to access the 2026-2027 Shorashim calendar.

Educational Opportunities

Pre-K (3-4 year olds), Kindergarten, and Grade 1

  • Sunday mornings

Grades 2-6

  • Sunday mornings, AND
  • Wednesday or Thursday afternoons, AND
  • 1x/week, individualized 20-minute virtual Hebrew session

Grade 7

  • Wednesday afternoons, taught by TIC clergy, AND
  • 1x/week, individualized 20-minute virtual Hebrew session

Limmud – 8th-10th Grades

Limmud is a space for teens to explore their Jewish identities, deepen their learning, and build meaningful relationships – with one another and with TIC clergy and educators. Together, participants will help shape what they learn, bringing their own questions, interests, and ideas into the experience.

Open to all TIC teens in 8th-10th grade – no matter where you go to school – Limmud is led by primary educator Jasmine Buzzella, along with guest teachers including Rabbi Tucker, Rabbi Bender, and Michelle Steinhart.

Wednesdays | 6:30–8:15 pm

  • 6:30–7:00 pm – Dinner (included with registration)
  • 7:00–8:00 pm – Limmud Program
  • 8:00–8:15 pm – TIC Daily Minyan

Topics may include exploring who you are as a Jewish teen and what Jewish identity means in today’s world, navigating and responding to rising antisemitism with confidence and resilience, examining social media through a Jewish lens, Jewish approaches to mindfulness and stress, meaningful ways to give back, and more. There is so much to discover as you grow into your identity as a Jewish adult – and this is just the beginning.

Masa – 11th-12th Grades

Jewish learning doesn’t end after 10th grade! We know that junior and senior year bring exciting opportunities and demanding schedules—from academics and athletics to jobs, leadership roles, and the college application process. For teens who want to continue growing as Jewish learners while balancing these commitments, we offer Masa, a flexible independent study opportunity with an appropriate member of our Clergy and Education Team. 

For information about Limmud and Masa, contact Jasmine Buzzella, Associate Director of Youth and Teen Engagement at 914-948-2800 x153.